I apologize if the thread title is misleading; I do not own a trike. I am, however, seriously considering the purchase of one. What I am hoping to accomplish with this thread is to hear some testimonials. I would like to know what brand/model of trike you own. Why did you buy it? What do you love/hate about it? Do you use it for all-weather commuting (including winter)? How much did you pay for it, and how much have you spent in upgrades/accessories? If you had your druthers, what brand/model would you buy today?

I would also like some buyer's advice: What features should I look for? Suspended or rigid? How extensive a test ride should I take? What accessories should I be prepared to budget for? Would you consider buying a trike online without a test ride?

I'm a mid-forties, Clydesdale-framed, 6-foot-tall man. I suffered a spinal fracture in 2006 and I took up cycling about 2.5 years ago after a 20-year hiatus as a means of physical therapy. I've been commuting to and from school and work on a semi-regular basis and I probably rack up about 3000 km (>1800 miles) per year upon my 3 DF bikes. My primary ride is a belt-driven, IGH-equipped "performance hybrid" that I bought in response to experiences gained through winter commuting. I live in London, Ontario and will likely have to go to Toronto to find my trike, since there are no dealers locally who carry trikes. Failing that I would need to order one online.

I don't personally know any trike (or 'bent, for that matter) owners, so my only resource for information is this forum, therefore I thank you in advance for any and all replies.

Cheers, and ride safe!

Edit: Since I live about 2 hours from Detroit & Port Huron, and about 3 hours from Niagara Falls, I would be willing to travel to the States to test ride some trikes if anyone knows of some good shops.